Dubai World at Seatrade Middle East Maritime

Opening the exhibition at the Dubai World Trade Centre and Exhibition Hall, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman of Dubai World, spoke of the strides taken by Dubai in the maritime industry and highlighted the need for more people to enter the maritime industry in the emirate.

Mr. Bin Sulayem said:

"Dubai has long been acknowledged as one of the leading hubs for the maritime industry in the world and our participation at this exhibition is an indicator of this fact. We have been able to satisfy various demands put forth by our international customer base through the setting up of the Dubai Dry Docks and now the Maritime City. The future lies in the maritime trade and we are looking forward to expanding our base and rising to the challenges ahead."

Taking a tour around the DP World and Dubai Maritime City stand Mr Bin Sulayem was briefed on the various projects in the pipeline for the Dubai Maritime City and spoke to senior management officials from the project.

In his keynote address to the conference, Muhammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World-UAE said:

"DP World is based in a dynamic and growing region, one which has changed considerably over the last 6 years. This growth has been very healthy and exciting and Dubai has been a frontrunner in developing this industry further. DP World is committed to expanding its operations worldwide. At the same time, we believe in being socially responsible towards the environment as well. "

Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, SMEM 2006 features first-time national pavilions from Singapore, South Korea, France and Germany.

DP World and DMC occupy an impressive stand at the exhibition where exhibitors from around the world have gathered to exchange expertise and knowledge in the latest developments of the maritime industry. International experts will address a range of issues, including the State of the Industry across the Middle East and Central Asia, Energy Transportation, Dry Bulk, Port Development and Liner Shipping, Finance for Shipping and Ship Repair, and Marine Technology.
SMEM also hosted the third Seatrade Dubai International Maritime Awards (DIMAs), which were presented at a gala dinner, where 34 companies had been short-listed for their achievements in the international maritime industry.

The event is sponsored by Dubai Maritime City, Dubai Ports Authority, the Government of Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, and the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines.

Other supporting organisations include Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Dubai Shipping Agents Association, National Association of Freight Logistics UAE Branch, Indian National Shipowners' Association and the UAE National Ship Suppliers' Association.